AMERICAN RADIOLOGY SERVICES

Computed Tomography (CT)

By: Susan Nigro, Director of CT

Computed tomography (CT) is a technology that has been in existence since the 1970s. Recently there has been a rapid explosion in the evolution of the technology. From 1999 to the present we have gone from single slice scanner to scanners that are able to take 320 images in one rotation. The technology has not only increased the speed in which the data is obtained, but it has allowed us to see small body structures that in the past were either not seen or poorly defined.

American Radiology Services has multi-slice scanners at all of our facilities that are able to scan a multitude of regions for various diagnoses. Some scans may require that you drink an oral contrast agent to help better visualize the digestive tract. Intravenous contrast may also be required in addition to oral contrast or it may be administered alone. The intravenous contrast allows for better visualization of the organs and blood vessels in the body. Most exams require the patient to lie on the table for 5-10 minutes. Four of our locations are able to perform dedicated CT scan of the heart, known as Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA). We also offer virtual colonoscopy for failed colonoscopies and calcium score exams as a screening tool for coronary artery disease.

Radiation concerns have grown in the community as the media has brought forth information on the growing use of medical exams that use radiation to obtain valuable images. All of the scanners at American Radiology Services use radiation dose modulation. Dose modulation allows for only the necessary radiation needed to penetrate a specific body region to be used. The amount of radiation will vary for each slice depending on the thickness of the part being imaged. ARS is fully aware of the concerns of radiation dose in the community and makes every effort to use only the amount of radiation necessary. Additionally, we are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) which also monitors how facilities are performing exams based on quality and radiation exposure. While it is important to be aware of medical radiation exposure, there are also everyday life experiences/technologies that contribute to radiation exposure including cell phones, microwaves, televisions, computers, and air travel.

As with all medical procedures, if there are any questions or concerns regarding a CT procedure, your medical doctor should be able to address these. The technologists at the center will also do their best to answer any questions about the procedure that you may have. We appreciate you making American Radiology Services your provider of choice.